I disagree entirely that it isn't a good movie. For what it's worth I've read a lot of Clarke but never 2001.

The film is a masterclass in seclusion; the technology used throughout the film progressively isolates the protagonists and the sublime ballet of machinery serves to put the audience into a similar state of mind. It feels like you're also experiencing an expedition— first to the relatively high-traffic lunar station, then to the locked down moon base, then to the sparse Discovery 1 with most of the inhabitants in hibernation (who we never meet), then finally to the solo journey of Dave through the star-gate and his solitary death and rebirth.

The score is incredible, the themes are timeless, the set design and costumes are impeccable, the cinematography is unparalleled, and the plot is engrossing.

I can't deny that is isn't for everyone, but that's what makes it an extra special movie for those who do appreciate it. In my opinion it's like saying Hamlet isn't a great story because not much happens until the end when that's almost entirely the point.

No shade intended, I'm glad that people like different things or the world would be a very boring place.